Richard Ovenden

Bank: Westminster Bank

Place of work: Yeovil branch

Died: 22 March 1943

Richard Ellison Ovenden was born on 18 October 1905, the son of Phillip Leonard and Maude Ovenden. He joined the staff of Westminster Bank in March 1923, serving in branches in the Bristol area until he was transferred to Yeovil branch in 1923. Outside work he was a territorial officer in the Somerset Light Infantry. 

He left the bank to go on war service at the end of August 1939. From 1940 he was attached to the Durham Light Infantry, initially as Captain and Adjutant, and then, from 1942, as Major. He was awarded the Military Cross for his conduct during heavy fighting in the Battle of Gazala. 

Major Ovenden was killed in action in Tunisia in the Battle of the Mareth Line on 22 March 1943. He was 36 years old and left a widow, Shelagh, whom he had married in 1941.